Experts meet in Bacolod to discuss addiction

Medical specialists are meeting in Bacolod City to discuss the latest trends and issues in treating various forms of addiction.

Dr. Manuel Panopio, president of the Philippine College of Addiction Medicine (PCAM), said the theme of the 9th annual convention being held at the East View Hotel from Sept. 11- to 13 is “Paradigm Shift in the Biopsychosocial Aspects of Addiction.”

Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon was scheduled to deliver the keynote speech during the opening ceremonies on Wednesday. Bacolod City Mayor Monico Puentebella was also expected to welcome the delegates to the city along with Dr. Charibel Escandelor, president of Canlaon Medical Society. Rep. Evelio Leonardia will induct the new PCAM officers tomorrow.

PCAM, an affiliate society of the Philippine Medical Association, was founded in 2005 by 27 doctors accredited by the Dangerous Drugs Board and the Department of Health with Dr. Antonio M. Gauzon as its first president. It now counts on some 200 addiction medicine specialists as members.

Among the topics and speakers are: “The Biological and Psychological Vulnerabilities of Substance Abusers” by Dr. Salvador Benjamin Vista; “Substance Abuse and Personality Disorders” by Dr. Vicente Cabuquit;  “Substance Abuse and Mood Disorders” by Dr. Paul Lee; “Alcohol and Its Effects on Hepatic Enzyme System” by Dr. Alejandro Baroque III;  “Substance Abuse and Stroke” by Dr. Gabino Rañoa; “Cardiovascular Co-morbidities of Nicotine/Tobacco Addiction” by Dr. Vicente Rosales, Jr.; “Cyber Addiction and Brain Plasticity” by Dr. Vicente Rosales, Jr.